Massachusetts governor says his health plan will cut costs

The rising cost of healthcare is being felt nationwide, and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick believes his administration can help his state save money if the legislature approves his plan.

According to the Associated Press, Patrick's plan aims to lower costs by making healthcare more about quality than quantity. In other words, instead of doctors ordering more tests and procedures to improve a person's health, which drive up costs, doctors will be financially rewarded based on how healthy their patients remain.

The Associated Press says Patrick presented his cost-cutting plan to the Boston Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.

Should the Massachusetts Congress choose to approve the legislation, the AP reports a new healthcare council board would be formed to act as a "clearinghouse" for the system.

In 2006, former Governor Mitt Romney passed legislation requiring residents to purchase health insurance. Since then, 98 percent of state residents are covered. Some have compared the federal healthcare law, which would require all U.S. citizens to have health insurance, with the Massachusetts plan.

Through the Massachusetts Commonwealth Connector, residents who are unable to afford health insurance may qualify for subsidies.